Occlusion, good or bad, is the result of an intricate and complicated synthesis of genetic and environmental relationships at work throughout the early developmental stages of childhood and young adulthood.Understanding the concepts has thus got far reaching implications in diagnosis, treatment planning and prognosis of malocclusion.The rules are clear. The goals are understandable and their fulfillment is achievable if treatment planning always starts with the end in mind. Any dentist who commits to learning the rules and developing the necessary skills for achieving each specific criterion for success will have the most essential foundation for an exceptional dental practice and a very fulfilling life.